From Transmitting Authority to Quiet Adaptation: Social Change and the Translation of Islamic Knowledge in Norway

Abstract

This article explores the transmission of textual Islamic knowledge in Norway—a context in which Muslims form a religious minority—using a pioneering method: studying the translation of texts. Many Muslims in Norway either came from another country themselves or have progenitors who did. Important texts relating to Islam have mostly been available in languages other than Norwegian. This makes it possible to use translation as a lens for understanding how Islamic knowledge is transmitted. I identify two tendencies in the transmission of Islamic knowledge through translation. Translation often cements the status of established and canonized texts and authors. But translation activities also show an adaptation to norms in Norwegian society. Texts pertaining to politically charged issues have sometimes been avoided altogether, and the wording of charged sections has in some instances been subtly changed. I label this process quiet adaptation. Many of the translated texts espouse a normativity that is more palatable to Norwegian society at large, and which Muslims living in Norway can more easily identify with. I conclude by discussing how the study of translation can be used as a way to explore social change in Muslim and other diaspora groups in Europe.